Category: Shrubs
Ladybug Summer
Today I was so excited to find ladybug larvae on my roses. I was making the usual weekly rounds, dead-heading, checking things out, snipping out leaves with black spot and scouting for aphids. Normally when I find a cluster of aphids I strip them off the leaves with my fingers (yes, I wear gloves). Today as I was brushing them off I noticed a few … Continue reading Ladybug Summer
A Promising Winter
January begins with fireworks and resolutions. The first day is bright and promising, but by mid-month we grow tired of the gloom, the ice and those dark after-dinner dog walks. Have you ever tried to pick up poop in the pitch black nothingness? It’s tricky. But a walk through the school arboretum reveals wonderful textures and surprising colors. It reminds me that the plants keep … Continue reading A Promising Winter
Salal
Look at this beautiful plant. Look at the green leathery leaves. Look at the soft fuzzy new growth. Look at the fine bristly hairs, look at the petite urn-shaped flowers. Look at those drooping little bells of white and pink. Look at this contrast of tender and tough. Look at the smooth curve of the leaf and straight line of the stem. Know this plant, … Continue reading Salal
Azara
I wouldn’t have noticed this tree unless I saw the sign right in front of it. Most signs aren’t very interesting but when they’re in front of plants I stop and read them. This one stated that when in flower, Azara smells like milk chocolate. What?! A chocolate plant? Yum….I immediately stepped into the under story of this suddenly fascinating plant and was surrounded by the … Continue reading Azara
Rainyleaf 